As I look back over my life, I see very clearly that Satan has tried to keep me from achieving my life purpose. He has wreaked havoc throughout my life with my childhood abuse, painful relationships, 3 head-on car collisions, criticism from others, and many other things. He has done all he can to try to stop me from (1) being saved, (2) understanding my true identity in Christ, (3) using my spiritual gifts, talents, and skills for God’s glory and to further His kingdom, and (4) believing that I am loved and valued.

Dear friend, I want you to know that it’s absolutely VITAL that you pursue God and do what He’s called to do in your life – and not let satan stop you! God loves you so much and you are so important! God wants to use you for His kingdom! There is no one else like you here on earth who can fulfill your unique mission from God. The reason you’re being so opposed is because the enemy sees you as a threat to his evil kingdom.

Is someone talking smack about you? One of the ways the enemy Satan tries to stop us from our purpose and great destiny is through the criticism of other people. Sometimes this even comes from other Christians, and our own friends and family members! We’re in good company then, because Jesus was criticized, too. In fact, his own mother and brothers thought he was “out of his mind.” (Mark 3:21)

When you begin to live in a way that is in alignment with your true, God-given purpose, literally all hell will come against you. Suddenly people will begin to criticize you, mock you, slander you, accuse you. Who are you to share about the great things God is doing in your life when you are obviously so – well, imperfect?!

Dear friends, that is why we all need Jesus. He’s the only perfect person there ever was. When you face trials and persecution, criticism and slander as you begin to discover and live out your purpose from God, keep your eyes on Jesus and meditate on 1 Peter 4:12-15, NLT:

Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you. Instead, be very glad—for these trials make you partners with Christ in his suffering, so that you will have the wonderful joy of seeing his glory when it is revealed to all the world. So be happy when you are insulted for being a Christian, for then the glorious Spirit of God rests upon you. If you suffer, however, it must not be for murder, stealing, making trouble, or prying into other people’s affairs.

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